Angels Are Forever: A Jewelry Inspiration for Today

by Jake Woolley, Exclusively for Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®

What do you think of when you hear the term "angel?" Likely that of a winged being dressed in white, adrift on a cloud and accessorized with a halo and harp. Behind that image is a world of feelings and perceptions about angels: feelings of kindness, peace, comfort and protection. These qualities are often portrayed through the imagery of angels, bringing a wealth of meaning to jewelry designs for sale, fundraising and more.

The symbolism of angelic figures has been around for thousands of years. Various cultures have portrayed angels through art and music for centuries. Look at the angelic faces of little children and you'll often see the description of a chubby little cherub. We lend our thoughts towards guardian angels when thinking of family members, both living and deceased, that have helped us through hard times. Today, angels are more prevalent than ever in commercials, books, art and fashion. One of the main reasons for this is that angels help us connect with each other.

Incorporating angels into jewelry can be an uplifting, supportive and fruitful contribution to an individual need or group cause. When creating angel-inspired jewelry, two iconic features stand out: the wings and halos. Each with their own unique symbolism, wings and halos are ideal elements to complement angelic jewelry designs. Here is a look at a few fashionable angel-themed styles including design ideas for creative inspiration.

Heavenly Halo

Also called a nimbus or aureole, this circular ring of light often surrounding angels represents faith. In such cases, the halo is an ideal representation of the light of the saintly. Designing any number of jewelry designs, such as necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets and brooches with this golden ring depicts a sense of spirituality and faith.

Winsome Wings

Not all angels have wings, but many angels depicted in art, film and literature appear to possess them. In the movie It's a Wonderful Life, George's daughter Zuzu said it best: "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." However, you don't have to ring a bell for angel jewelry designs to get wings.

Wings in angel illustrations are often large, feathery and white. Using authentic feathers to depict wings in angel jewelry designs including necklaces and earrings can bring out dynamic appeal. Crystal components, such as Swarovski wing pendants, add a sparkling aura to designs.

Additional wing components are cast-metal styles. One pleasing feature about metal angel wings is that they are offered in a diverse selection including charms, beads, focals and more.

A current trend is jewelry featuring a single right angel wing, representing protection. Such a piece indicates you are under an angel's wing, safe from the dangers of the world.

With universal human desires for love, protection and security, handmade angel jewelry is welcomed, not only during holiday seasons, but also throughout the year. The design possibilities are endless. As you begin to create angelic jewelry lines, the opportunities to inspire and help others will become more abundant and appreciated. Take the opportunity this year to incorporate angels into your designs and share your expression of angels through each piece you create.